Watch New Jerusalem

New Jerusalem, a 2011 drama film directed by Rick Alverson, which stars Will Oldham, Colm O'Leary, and Walter Scott, tells the story of two close friends, Ike (O'Leary) and Sean (Scott), who work together at a small construction company in the American South. Ike is a devout Christian who takes his religion very seriously, while Sean is a more laid-back individual who enjoys smoking weed and drinking beer.

When Ike is injured on the job, he finds himself unable to work, and Sean is left to finish the construction project alone. As Sean contemplates his future, he begins to question whether he too should turn to religion as a way of finding solace in his life.

The story takes place over the course of a weekend, during which Ike and Sean discuss their beliefs and the possibility of redemption in the face of life's difficulties. As the two friends navigate their different worldviews, tensions begin to mount, ultimately leading to a confrontation that forces them to confront their own personal demons.

Throughout the film, Oldham's character, Ike, serves as a foil to O'Leary's Sean, providing a stark contrast between the two men's religious and moral outlooks. Ike's unwavering faith and insistence on adherence to strict biblical teachings often put him at odds with Sean, who is more skeptical and questioning.

The cinematography of New Jerusalem is subdued and minimalist, with long, static shots and muted colors creating a somber and contemplative atmosphere. The film's pacing is deliberate, allowing the characters' conversations and interactions to unfold naturally, emphasizing the quiet moments of reflection that are often overlooked in more action-oriented films.

New Jerusalem is a deeply personal and introspective film that explores themes of faith, friendship, and the struggle to find meaning in an often difficult and chaotic world. It is a thought-provoking work that challenges its viewers to confront their own beliefs and convictions, and to appreciate the value of finding common ground with those whose worldviews may differ from their own.

Overall, New Jerusalem is a poignant and deeply moving film that is sure to leave a lasting impression on those who view it. Its themes of faith, redemption, and human connection are universal, and its message is both profound and thought-provoking. Anyone looking for a meaningful and intimate cinematic experience should consider giving this film a watch.

New Jerusalem is a 2012 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 34 minutes. It has received mostly poor reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.3 and a MetaScore of 46.